North Dakota is considering a proposal to approve the material terms of a stock appreciation right plan. Stock appreciation rights (SARS) are a type of employee compensation plan that grants employees the right to receive the appreciation in the company's stock over a specified period of time. These plans are a popular alternative to traditional stock options as they provide employees with the financial benefits of stock ownership without the need to purchase the actual shares. The North Dakota Proposal aims to establish the framework for granting SARS to eligible employees, defining the terms and conditions of the plan. This includes determining the number of SARS to be granted, the vesting schedule, and the exercise price. The proposal seeks to align the interests of employees with shareholders, motivating them to contribute to the company's growth and success. By approving the material terms of the stock appreciation right plan, North Dakota aims to attract and retain top talent, ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of its businesses. This proposal demonstrates the state's commitment to fostering a competitive business environment and enhancing employee compensation practices. Under the North Dakota Proposal, companies can potentially customize their stock appreciation right plans based on their specific needs and circumstances. While the exact types of plans may vary, a few common variations include: 1. Phantom Stock Appreciation Rights: This type of plan grants employees a cash bonus equal to the appreciation in the stock's value, without actually issuing any stock. This allows employees to benefit from the company's success without diluting shareholders' ownership. 2. Tandem Stock Appreciation Rights: In this plan, employees receive both stock options and SARS. The employee has the flexibility to choose the type they want to exercise, depending on the stock's performance and their personal financial goals. 3. Restricted Stock Appreciation Rights: This variation grants SARS on restricted stock units (RSS). RSS is a promise to deliver shares of stock after a vesting period, usually subject to certain performance or time-based conditions. Employees receive SARS on the future appreciation of the RSS, further aligning their incentives with the company's performance. Overall, the North Dakota Proposal to approve material terms of the stock appreciation right plan aims to enhance employee compensation practices, align employee and shareholder interests, and attract and retain skilled talent. The proposal recognizes the importance of providing additional incentives to employees beyond traditional salary packages, fostering a thriving business ecosystem in North Dakota.